ADHD Assessment in the UK
An ADHD evaluation is typically a fairly thorough procedure. A psychiatrist will determine if your symptoms are causing significant impairment and rule out other conditions, such as thyroid issues or depression. They may also request old school reports and other supporting evidence.
It is essential that the person who is conducting your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is true for GP's and consultant psychiatrists too.
Waiting at various times
Adults in the UK who need an ADHD diagnosis are forced to wait for years to consult psychiatrists for years. The condition is classified as a serious mental disorder with an impact on the daily lives of people. The situation is worse in certain areas, with waiting times as high as four years. The charity ADHD UK has called for urgent action to improve the situation.
The issue is exacerbated by a growing awareness of the condition and an increase in the demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting to seek treatment through private clinics. The Right to Choose scheme has made it easier for patients to choose private healthcare providers.
Psychiatry UK is one such service, which provides an online ADHD assessment and prescriptions for the NHS. It has seen a surge in the number of adults who seek an assessment, which is currently outpacing its capacity. If you choose to go the private route are usually more successful, since private psychiatrists are more adept at dealing with adults and are more familiar with the nuances of the condition. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities like anxiety and depression that are often associated with ADHD.
However, many people are concerned about the quality of private assessments and the potential for them to over-diagnose the condition. The issue came to the public's attention when a BBC Panorama investigation exposed the ways in which private clinics were awarding diagnoses without proper procedure. Some have claimed that the program is perpetuating stereotypes and stigmas of people with ADHD.
However, the BBC should be commended for exposing the issue and highlighting the plight of adults who need an ADHD diagnosis. It is a shame that some people who need this help are being forced to seek it privately, and the NHS must come up with ways to address the issue. If you think you may have ADHD Consider a no-cost test with a charity or pay for an appointment with a private psychiatrist who will assess you. They are usually less expensive than the NHS however they will not issue the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is important to seek a diagnosis if you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A correct diagnosis will enable you to take steps to manage your symptoms, which includes medication. You could also be referred to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. Many private clinics offer diagnosis and the ability to adjust. These clinics are usually very experienced with the wide range of adults who may have ADHD, including men and women. They are also able to screen for co-morbidities, like anxiety and depression.
Private ADHD assessments are costly, but the waiting times for NHS services are significantly longer. The typical cost is the initial assessment, and then schedule follow-up appointments if needed. These appointments will be covered by your insurance if you have it. These appointments will be conducted by specially trained nurses who have a special interest in ADHD and are able to assess the condition. Initial appointments usually include clinical interviews and rating systems. You will also be required to complete questionnaires and you may be referred for further tests like an MRI or EEG.
You should expect to pay between PS500 and PS1,200 at a private facility for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separate from diagnosis and can be less expensive. The process of titration takes longer and requires more appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments is under scrutiny following the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before turning to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation highlighted a number of cases where patients were given a diagnosis of ADHD that was later withdrawn. This is a problem since it can be extremely distressing for people to have their symptoms incorrectly diagnosed, and some patients have been given medication that causes negative side effects.
In Scotland the cost for an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these assessments. However, it is worth checking to see if you have coverage.
Referral to specialist clinics
If your GP suggests you visit an expert clinic, the doctor will ask you questions and carry out an assessment. They will determine whether your symptoms are a sign of ADHD and if they meet the criteria for diagnosing the condition. They will also check for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. Most of the time, these are anxiety and depression. The clinician will then discuss possible treatment options with you including medication if needed.
During an assessment, the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at home and work. They will also inquire about any medications that you are taking. They will then conduct a structured interview, and you should bring an adult person or relative along to provide additional information. It typically requires a few sessions to arrive at the diagnosis. Some clinics provide a full assessment, and others will only look for specific symptoms.
The poor quality of NHS ADHD services has come under scrutiny after a Panorama investigation. The undercover reporter was diagnosed with ADHD in three private clinics, while his GP claimed that he did not have ADHD. The BBC claimed that the story was an example of "over-diagnosing" by private companies, while GPs are only able to refer patients to further investigations or prescribe medication according to strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared care with the NHS and is the only way that they can transfer the patient's care to the NHS after an individual diagnosis. They feel that they are not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. A lot of private psychiatrists do not prescribe medications for their patients, which can make it difficult for them to receive the treatment they require.
Ask your GP to refer you for an ADHD assessment If they haven't done so already. You can determine the estimated waiting time by calling your local mental health clinic or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you to choose an online ADHD assessment service website that will be provided by the NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can alter your life. It can help people understand themselves and also their family and friends. In addition, it can assist them in finding a suitable treatment plan. However, obtaining an assessment isn't always easy. In the UK, people have to wait a long time for an NHS assessment. This can be frustrating for many people who want to be diagnosed with ADHD.
If you can't wait, you can refer yourself to an expert psychiatrist for a private assessment. You will be able to save time and avoid having to go to your GP. This isn't a fast process and can take a long time but it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is important to make sure that the person who conducts your test is a psychologist or psychiatrist because they are the only healthcare professionals who are qualified to diagnose ADHD in the UK.
A private assessment will likely include a clinical interview with a psychiatrist. This will include questions about your mental health and your childhood history. The doctor will also employ ratings scales and inquire about your current struggles in work, school, and relationships. The doctor will also talk about other symptoms that could be indicative of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will then send a comprehensive ADHD report to your GP with your permission. If appropriate, they will prescribe medication. They will also help you find other ways of assistance, like tutoring and support for your study skills. If you are a student, they will also help you apply for Disabled Students Allowance.
While it's not ideal to cut corners, the reality is that NHS services are overwhelmed and underfunded. Some people try to cut corners using online assessments or private clinics with fast appointments but with lack of clinical expertise. These methods should be avoided. However, those with ADHD should be seeking a diagnosis even if they can afford it.